By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter) with files from Gov't of Alberta

Alberta brings in new rules for car repairs and purchases

Oct 25, 2018 | 12:55 PM

EDMONTON —  Alberta will be governed by new industry-wide standards for selling and repairing vehicles as of October 31, 2018.

Service Alberta Minister Brian Malkinson says the changes to Automotive Business Regulations will increase transparency and better protect consumers.

“Buying or repairing a car shouldn’t be intimidating. These new rules can give Albertans confidence that they won’t be hit with unexpected costs because they will know exactly what they’re paying for. More transparency is good for consumers and it’s good for Alberta’s many trustworthy auto businesses, too.”
 
The changes were formulted around feedback from to Albertans during 2017 consultations on consumer protection laws.  The feedback identified the need for better protections when buying a car and more transparency relating to auto repairs.

 The new rules will ensure auto businesses:

— Inform buyers of the history and condition of a vehicle such as the vehicle’s previous use, ownership or details of any damages.

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— Provide a comprehensive bill of sale document at the time of the car sale (There will be a standardized agreements on deposits).

— Provide written estimates upon request and get consumer’s consent before starting any work.

— Remove any outstanding liens on a vehicle within seven days of the sale.

— Remove any advertising about a sold vehicle within 14 days of the sale to ensure consumers are not enticed by low prices that won’t be honoured.

 In addition to the new rules, the Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC), will transition to a public agency. This will ensure Alberta has a strong and trusted regulator that is well-positioned to protect consumers and build integrity in the industry.
 
AMVIC,  under the Alberta Public Agencies Governance Act, provides consumer protection in the motor vehicle industry. In addition to licensing businesses and salespeople and ensuring there’s a fair marketplace for consumers and businesses, AMVIC is responsible for investigating violations of consumer protection laws.

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